September 2019

Patients who notice a bony lump that gradually develops on the side of the big toe may be aware it can be a bunion. It can form from genetic traits, or as a result of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The symptoms that are often associated with this condition can consist of a numbing or burning sensation on or around the affected area, and it may feel tender and appear red. Larger shoes may have to be purchased that can accommodate the size of the bunion. Some patients find it beneficial to wear cushions on the bunions or custom-made orthotics, and this may provide moderate relief. If the bunion is causing severe pain and discomfort, please consult with a podiatrist who can discuss proper treatment options, which may involve surgery for permanent removal.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Robert Graser of Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The symptoms that often accompany poor circulation can include a tingling and numbing sensation in the hands and feet, swollen toes, and toenails may be brittle and discolored.  Some patients experience dry skin, dizzy spells and headaches, and these may be indicative of this condition. Raynaud’s disease is a type of poor circulation, and this may cause the fingers and toes to turn white, and may feel cold for the majority of the day. It is helpful to know that symptoms of circulation conditions may be diminished by performing a gentle exercise routine as frequently as possible. This may help to improve blood flow in the body. Additionally, it may be beneficial to limit or stop smoking, which may stop the arteries from becoming narrow. If you would like to learn more about how poor circulation can affect the feet, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Robert Graser of Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated the importance of choosing the correct shoe size. When shoes that are worn fit properly, uncomfortable foot conditions may be prevented. It is beneficial to try shoes on in the afternoon when the feet are generally at their largest. It is helpful to use a Brannock device to determine your exact shoe size. When shoes are tried on, it is important to ensure there is adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, the correct size and style shoe will fit properly when they are initially tried on, and will not have to be “broken in”. It is important to notice how well the sole of the shoe is constructed which is instrumental in providing enough cushioning and support. If you would like to know more information about how to purchase shoes that fit correctly, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When your ankle rolls to one side after unexpectedly stepping off of a curb, the pain and discomfort that often accompanies this type of injury can be intense. Many patients have difficulty walking after incurring an ankle injury, and running activities are temporarily impossible to partake in. An ankle sprain typically consists of damaged ligaments that comes from being stretched too far. Common symptoms of an ankle injury often include swelling and throbbing on and around the affected area, severe pain and discomfort while attempting to move it, and it is often tender when touched. Moderate relief can be obtained while elevating the ankle. This may help in diminishing a portion of the swelling. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically consists of having an X-ray taken, the ankle will generally be wrapped in an elastic bandage that can provide adequate support. It is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat ankle injuries.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many people will experience various conditions that can result in discomfort in their feet at some point in their lives. There are several types of foot pain that exist, and each can originate from a variety of reasons. If a ligament in the ankle becomes stretched or torn, it may be the result of a sprain that occurred. Patients who have diabetes can have diminished nerve function, and this can lead to a painful condition known as neuropathy. If a fall has happened, it may precede a fracture which can impact the foot and lower leg. Additionally, foot pain can come from having gout, and this can happen when there is excess uric acid in the blood. If you are having any type of foot pain, it is advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly treat your specific foot condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Robert Graser from Graser Podiatry and Bunion Surgery Institute. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Boerne, . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.